Oil Spill Forces Closure Of Galveston Ship Channel After Vessel Hits Pier

The United States Coast Guard and the Texas General Land Office are responding to an oil discharge that occurred near the Port of Galveston, Texas, on 28 October, following a vessel’s allision with a pier.

According to information from Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, watchstanders received a report at around 9:50 p.m. about a fuel oil spill caused by a vessel striking Pier 32 at the port. Officials confirmed that the source of the discharge has since been secured.

The Coast Guard is working closely with the Texas General Land Office and the vessel’s operating company, Forestwave Navigation BV, to manage the spill response.

Personnel and equipment have been deployed to the affected area to contain the oil and reduce any potential environmental impact.

As part of the response measures, authorities have temporarily closed the Galveston Ship Channel from Gulf Copper to the Pelican Island Bridge. This step aims to limit vessel movement and reduce the risk of the spill spreading further.

Air quality and safety in the surrounding area are being continuously monitored, and as of now, there have been no reports of injuries or harm to wildlife. The total amount of oil discharged is still under investigation.

Authorities have urged mariners to report any visible signs of oil or contamination to the National Response Centre on 800-424-8802.

An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the incident and the circumstances that led to the allision.

Reference: US Coast Guard

Source: Maritime Shipping News